Tirumazhisai traders complain of poor safety, hygiene, want Koyambedu reopened

Chennai

The recent rainfall has also exposed major issues in the temporary shelters as vendors complained that several shops began to leak thus causing damage to the vegetables. Besides, some trucks got stuck in the muddy roads for more than a day, the vendors alleged.

“Rainfall for the last two days has caused water leakage inside the shop and we are clueless as to how to safeguard our goods. The market is crowded compared to the early days and though there is police presence till the market operation time, no social distancing is being enforced here,” said P Lucas, a trader at the market. He claimed that even the washrooms were filthy and there was no adequate drinking water facility. Hence many have developed health issues sand proper hygiene and despite complaints to officials, no action has been taken. “Vegetables, weighing machines and scales are being robbed as the police force is present only till 10 am. Apart from this, snakes have also started entering the shops, since it is in an open space,” said P Sukumaran, Secretary, Koyambedu Wholesale Market Merchants’ Association.

The traders have urged authorities to reopen Koyambedu market after disinfecting the premises as they face huge losses. “The cops are issuing tokens for trucks which is valid for only two hours but it would take that much time to get inside the market during rainfall. So, they unload vegetables on the road outside and retailers purchase directly from them,” said Thiagarajan, another trader.

However, CMDA officials, claimed that thermal screening is properly enforced for every individual entering the market and that lorries are disinfected when they supplying vegetables, and even while leaving the market. “We have appointed a few police personnel who will be in charge after the market is closed. All other issues will also be addressed,” said a senior CMDA official.